Cardinals RB Ryan Williams impressing, could be 'special player'

The hype machine is in full motion for Arizona Cardinals running back Ryan Williams. The second-year back from Virginia Tech is healthy and in rare form during practices. The production hasn't taken hold in two preseason game performances (five carries for 25 yards and three carries for 15 yards) yet expectations are still high. Cardinals' beat writer Kent Somers pointed out that Williams has the ability to "(make) something out of nothing" and added, "If he stays healthy, Williams shows every sign of being a special player."

Fantasy Analysis:

Williams is a naturally shifty back who can change direction without losing any speed. While he lacks elite straight line speed, his vision and quick twitch abilities while running through the pile make him a great talent. Wells obviously hasn't lost his job yet though and both players need to continue grinding. With Williams though, he presents a great mid-round value. A month ago he was going around the middle of the ninth round while today, he's climbed up to a late seventh round choice.

People are sleeping on him! Why is anyone drafting Beanie Wells when he can't stay healthy and when he does he is awful?

Posted by:
DJkolbe 08/24/12 02:28 PM

Going in Rounds 7-9? Are you playing in 20-team leagues? :-)

I've done about 30 mocks in 12-team leagues and I'm usually able to get him in rounds 14-16. I've never seen him go higher than round 12.

Posted by:
heatwaves 08/24/12 03:12 PM

I like this williams kid... he is more explosive then wells and i think he could be a decent ppr option if he gets more playing time then wells who is basically useless as a pass catcher..hopefully williams takes at least 60% of the carries and becomes a nice flex choice in ppr leagues especially if wells battles injuries all yr

Posted by:
man71284 08/25/12 08:36 AM

I agree. Maybe this is what Skelton or Kolb need: a back to dump the ball off to that can keep the chains moving. That'd help those guys get in rhythm. That'd help Fitzy well.

Posted by:
nickcole1111 08/25/12 03:22 PM

So at this point who's stock is higher, r. Will or Beanie baby?

Posted by:
Jlinefootball2 08/25/12 10:10 PM

williams and wells are backs to stay away from unless you can get him late i'm talking 14-16rnd or better in free agency. Williams is the better back but the Cards O-line and QB play is so bad neither is worth taking the risk

Posted by:
bstokes1 08/27/12 10:26 PM

hey heatwaves instead of going in 30 mock drafts you should have worked on your resume and gotten a job.